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Wilkinson, Franklin to face off

Published 12:01am Thursday, October 3, 2013

Woodville — Franklin County High School (3-2) is steady working on its offensive weaknesses, while Wilkinson County High School (4-2) plans to take advantage of them as the Bulldogs and Wildcats battle it out Friday in their district opener.

Franklin County will head to hostile Wildcat territory to battle against a strong offensive team featuring quarterback Devin Voorhies, receiver Allenzae Staggers and running back LaDarion Peterson.

Franklin County head coach Chris Calcote said his defense has its work cut out for it with trying to contain a Dandy Dozen player like Voorhies.

“It’s all about containing Voorhies,” he said. “He can pass and he can throw. He’s one of the best quarterbacks we’ve played.”

As for offense, Calcote said they’ve spent their bye week working on their offense.

“We’ve worked really hard on our passing game,” Calcote said. “We know we have to throw the ball to be successful. We’d love to add that other dimension. “

As Calcote is trying to strengthen the Bulldogs’ passing game, Wilkinson County head coach Kenneth Brown is trying to make sure passing is the only option for Franklin County.

“We have to stop the run,” Brown said. “Their backs run hard, and Chris Robinson and Benard Selmon have (the ball) in their hands most of the game. We stop those two, and we’ll have a good chance to win.”

Brown said last week’s 26-20 defeat to Greenwood High School showed promise in the character of his football team as they never gave up and they’re motivated to start district the right way.

“I told them don’t let a defeat like that get you down because they played one hell of a game,” Brown said. “District play starts this week so we have to play focused.”

Calcote looks at the matchup as an important district game as well, one that may shape their playoff bracket placement.

“If we’re fortunate enough to win, it gives us a chance to host a first-round playoff game,” Calcote said.

Franklin County will play at Wilkinson County at 7 p.m. Friday.

Jefferson County High School

FAYETTE — The Tigers (1-3) will open their regional schedule this week with a trip to Crystal Springs High School.

Jefferson County head coach James Herrington could not be reached for comment. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday.